The 2025 Smart #5: A Bold New Direction for the Iconic Brand
Once, the Smart brand was synonymous with compact city cars, but evolving legislation and market dynamics have prompted a notable shift. The brand is stepping into the spotlight with the introduction of its latest offering—the 2025 Smart #5—and is ready to redefine its identity in the electric vehicle segment.
A Bigger and Bolder SUV
The Smart #5 isn’t just an extension of its predecessors, like the Smart #1 and Smart #3. This model is a substantial electric SUV that seeks to compete with established names like the Volkswagen ID.4. While appearing smaller at first glance, the #5 is comparable in dimensions, offering ample interior space and enhancing the Smart name’s appeal to families.
Market Competition: Can Smart Capture Consumer Interest?
With its new design language and expanded size, an essential question arises: Can the revamped Smart attract buyers’ attention like its earlier models? The challenge lies in establishing a strong foothold against competitors that have dominated the market for years.
A Journey to Portugal: Testing the #5
To gain deeper insight, we traveled to Portugal for the global launch of the #5, where we explored a high-performance Brabus variant. It was the perfect opportunity to assess its performance across a variety of terrains, from busy urban streets to winding country roads.
Diverse Driving Conditions
Despite the sportier styling and enhanced power output of the Brabus variant, the core attributes of the #5 remain intact across its family of variants. We tested how well the #5 performed in different situations—gravel tracks, highways, and everything in between—months before its anticipated Australian release.
Pricing Expectations
Though Smart has yet to disclose pricing details specific to Australia, we anticipate that this mid-size electric SUV will start around $70,000, which is slightly above the smaller Smart #3.
A Generous Standard Specification
Those considering the Smart #5 can look forward to an impressive array of standard features. Expect 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof, and front and rear parking sensors to be part of the package. Additionally, a stunning 13-inch touchscreen will serve as the hub for infotainment needs.
Inside the Smart #5: Modern, Clean, and Functional
Smart’s new design ethos is fully realized in the #5’s interior. A sleek and modern aesthetic is complemented by rounded shapes and a decluttered dashboard, which houses the majority of controls within the touchscreen interface.
High-Tech Features: A Double-Edged Sword
While the 13-inch touchscreen is impressive, it also features Smart’s innovative voice assistant, represented by a lion avatar. Although this tech is cutting-edge, some may find it visually distracting. A unique inclusion, especially in high-end versions, is a passenger display that allows for media viewing but may divert the driver’s attention.
Cabin Quality: A Step Up
The #5’s cabin quality is up to par with, if not exceeding, that of earlier Smart models. The materials feel premium, and the spacious interior is enhanced by a glass roof, creating an airy environment for both front and rear passengers.
Room for Everyone
With a generous amount of rear legroom and headroom, the #5 can comfortably seat five passengers, though it may disappoint those needing more. Regardless, the middle seat in the second row is still surprisingly comfortable for a compact SUV.
Impressive Cargo Space
Luggage space in the Smart #5 is quite commendable, featuring a 630-litre boot—more than most of its competitors, including the VW ID.4. Additionally, a ‘frunk’ under the hood provides extra storage options, perfect for small pieces like carry-on luggage.
Under the Hood: Battery Options
While final specifications for the Australian market are pending, European versions are set to include two battery options. The larger 100kWh lithium-ion battery offers impressive performance and efficiency, while a baseline 74kWh variant might also reach Australian shores.
Power and Performance
The Smart #5 offers multiple powertrains, including rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options, with performance outputs ranging widely. The pinnacle variant, the Brabus, boasts a staggering 475kW—a level of power not typically found in this category.
Driving Dynamics
Weighty yet surprisingly comfortable, especially in the Brabus configuration, the #5 excels in ride quality. Smart has clearly prioritized comfort, absorbing bumps with ease, which is often challenging for larger vehicles equipped with sizeable wheels.
Handling and Steering: Not Without Challenges
Despite its comfort focus, the #5 still manages to navigate corners somewhat effectively, albeit with noticeable lean. While practical for its comfort, those seeking precision may find room for improvement in the dynamic handling of this SUV.
Quiet as a Whisper
The Smart #5 excels in delivering a peaceful driving experience with well-insulated glass. Even though it may not rival luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, cabin quietness remains impressive, living up to Smart’s semi-premium aspirations.
Comprehensive Safety Features
Although crash test ratings for the #5 are yet to be announced, prior Smart models have successfully secured five-star ratings in safety tests. The #5 is outfitted with a plethora of standard safety technologies, including autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance.
Cost of Ownership: A Budget-Friendly Option
With every new Smart vehicle sold in Australia typically covered by a five-year, 150,000km warranty, the #5 is expected to follow suit. As low running costs are one of its selling points, the model promises affordability compared to conventional petrol cars.
Range and Efficiency: The Trade-offs
While Smart’s #5 brings low-cost electric operation to the forefront, it does not reach the same efficiency as some competing models. Larger battery capacity results in costlier charging, but the difference is not exorbitant.
Final Assessment: Smart’s New Identity
The Smart #5 represents an ambitious pivot from the brand’s small-car roots. As a competent and comfortable electric SUV, it stands poised to take on established rivals like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Nissan Ariya. Its performance and fast-charging capabilities, alongside a few minor ergonomic issues, make it worth considering.
Conclusion
In shedding its old identity, Smart has positioned itself for growth in the ever-evolving EV market. The 2025 Smart #5 is not just a car; it’s a statement. A confident move towards catering to families and a broader audience, it showcases Smart’s adaptation to modern-day needs while retaining its charm. As we await its full release and further details, one thing is undeniable—the Smart #5 is ready to make waves.
